Drinking alcohol in warm weather

posted on 19 Jul 2016

During these times we often get queries asking about the additional risks to be aware of if drinking alcohol in the sun and how to stay safe.

Drink plenty of water

With the sun set to stick around for the week, don’t forget to keep hydrated by alternating each alcoholic drink with water. Of course, we should all enjoy the nice weather but for those who choose to drink alcohol in the sun, it is vitally important that they stay hydrated.

Avoid swimming

Alcohol affects your perception of danger, making you more likely to take unnecessary risks. Alcohol also impairs your balance and coordination - all essential for swimming and boating and avoiding hazards in the water. Irish Water Safety say that almost 30% of drowned victims will have consumed alcohol. Never swim if you have consumed alcohol and be vigilant around open water.

Keep track

Drinking alcohol at any level can increase the risk of damage to your health and wellbeing but this risk increases the more you drink. Try to keep track of how many standard drinks you consume. One standard drink is a half pint of beer, stout or lager, small glass of wine (100ml) or a pub measure of spirits (35.5ml). The HSE recommends adhering to the low-risk guidelines for alcohol consumption:

11 standard drinks (110g pure alcohol) spread out over the week for women, with at least two alcohol-free days

17 standard drinks (170g pure alcohol) spread out over the week for men, with at least two alcohol-free days